**LSU’s beloved live mascot, Mike the Tiger, disappears; campus officials call for public assistance** Louisiana State University (LSU) and the Baton Rouge area are in a state of
Louisiana State University (LSU) and the Baton Rouge area are in a state of confusion, disbelief, and growing concern after the shocking disappearance of the university’s beloved live mascot, Mike the Tiger. Mike VII, as he is officially known, has long been a central figure in LSU’s campus life—a living symbol of school spirit, tradition, and pride. His absence has sent shockwaves through the LSU community, prompting an urgent call for public assistance from university officials and local authorities.
The disappearance was first noticed early Tuesday morning when caretakers arrived at the habitat, only to discover that Mike was missing. His enclosure—typically secure and under 24/7 surveillance—showed no visible signs of forced entry. Surveillance footage, however, was partially corrupted, and several cameras appear to have been tampered with, raising suspicions of foul play. The LSU Police Department, working alongside Baton Rouge Police and animal welfare organizations, has launched a full-scale investigation. Search teams are combing the campus and surrounding wooded areas, while air units have been dispatched for aerial surveillance.
The university issued an official statement mid-morning, confirming the disappearance and urging the public to remain calm. “We are deeply concerned about the welfare of Mike VII and are doing everything within our power to locate him and return him safely,” said Dr. Ronald Taylor, LSU’s Vice President for Strategic Communications. “We are also asking for the public’s help. If anyone has information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, we urge them to come forward immediately.”
Mike VII, a majestic Bengal-Siberian hybrid tiger, has lived in the state-of-the-art, 15,000-square-foot habitat near Tiger Stadium since his arrival in August 2017. The enclosure was designed to mimic natural surroundings, complete with a stream, waterfall, and lush vegetation. The habitat is considered one of the finest in the nation for a live mascot, and Mike’s care has always been handled by a team of veterinarians and student caretakers who monitor his health and well-being closely. For many, Mike is not just a mascot but a cherished member of the LSU family.
News of the disappearance spread quickly across campus, with students and faculty gathering outside the habitat in silent solidarity. Many brought posters, photos, and flowers, turning the site into a makeshift vigil. Others took to social media to express their disbelief and hope for a swift recovery. “Mike is more than a mascot—he’s part of our identity,” tweeted sophomore Emily Landry. “LSU isn’t LSU without Mike. We need to find him.”
Speculation has run rampant about who—or what—could be behind the disappearance. Some students have floated the idea of a rival school prank gone too far, while others suspect animal rights activists who have long opposed the use of live animals as mascots. PETA and other advocacy organizations have previously voiced strong objections to Mike’s presence on campus, although there is currently no evidence linking any group to the incident. Officials have cautioned the public against jumping to conclusions and reiterated that all leads are being thoroughly investigated.
Animal experts are also weighing in, expressing concern for the tiger’s safety. “Tigers are not animals that can be easily transported or hidden,” said Dr. Alicia Montrose, a wildlife biologist at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans. “They require a specific diet, medical care, and a controlled environment. If Mike was taken by someone without the proper knowledge or facilities, his health could be in immediate jeopardy.” Dr. Montrose also noted that stress from relocation or mishandling could prove fatal for a tiger, especially one accustomed to a stable routine and environment.
LSU has launched a hotline and an anonymous tip line for anyone with information, and a reward has been offered for Mike’s safe return. Additionally, the university has suspended all campus tours and non-essential events near the habitat area until further notice. Extra security has also been deployed across the campus as a precaution.
Meanwhile, the emotional toll on the LSU community is growing. Professors have noted a drop in attendance and engagement, and counseling services have been made available for students who are struggling with the news. “Mike is a symbol of strength, tradition, and continuity,” said Dr. Cheryl Bennett, a psychology professor at LSU. “His disappearance represents a profound loss—not just of a beloved animal, but of something deeply symbolic. It’s natural for students and staff to experience grief and uncertainty.”
Local businesses, which often capitalize on LSU-themed merchandise, have also joined the campaign to find Mike. Several stores are offering discounts on Mike-themed items with proceeds going toward the search effort. Billboards around Baton Rouge have been updated with photos of Mike and the university’s emergency contact numbers. Even local sports teams have expressed support, including the New Orleans Saints, who posted on social media, “Our thoughts are with LSU—bring Mike home.”
Despite the mounting tension, there have also been moments of hope and unity. A candlelight vigil held at the LSU Memorial Tower drew hundreds of participants, all clad in purple and gold. Some shared stories of visiting Mike’s habitat as children, while others spoke about how seeing Mike before a football game became a cherished ritual. The vigil ended with a rendition of the LSU alma mater, sung softly in the humid Louisiana evening.
As the investigation enters its second day, authorities are focusing on reviewing security logs, interviewing staff, and analyzing tire tracks found near a restricted area behind the habitat. Officials have confirmed that a service gate was unlocked, though it is unclear whether this was an oversight or a deliberate act. Wildlife tracking dogs have been brought in, and several environmental camera traps have been installed throughout nearby wooded areas. A drone equipped with thermal imaging is also being used to scan for any signs of a large animal.
Animal transport companies and exotic animal veterinarians within a 300-mile radius have been contacted in case Mike was moved under false pretenses. The USDA and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are collaborating with state officials to ensure compliance with all relevant animal protection laws and to coordinate the search beyond Louisiana’s borders if necessary.
National media has picked up the story, with coverage appearing on CNN, NBC, and The New York Times. The attention has only amplified the urgency surrounding the case, drawing both public scrutiny and broader interest in the debate over live animal mascots. LSU has reiterated its commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare and stressed that the incident is unprecedented in the university’s history.
Back on campus, a group of veterinary students has organized a volunteer network to distribute flyers and monitor online marketplaces and classifieds for any sign of illegal animal sales or transportation. “We’re not going to stop looking,” said senior vet student Carlos Jiménez. “Mike means the world to this school. He deserves to be brought back home safely.”
University leadership has emphasized transparency throughout the ordeal, promising regular updates to the community. A press conference is scheduled for tomorrow morning, during which officials are expected to share more details about the investigation and any new leads. In the meantime, students and alumni are rallying together, using the hashtag #FindMikeVII to spread awareness across social platforms.
While the search continues, questions about security lapses and the future of the live mascot program loom large. Some have called for a full audit of the university’s animal safety protocols, while others argue that this might be the moment to reconsider the tradition altogether. The LSU Board of Supervisors has scheduled an emergency meeting to discuss the matter, though no decisions have been made regarding the program’s future.
In the heart of Baton Rouge, hope persists that Mike will return home unharmed. The community’s efforts, from grassroots campaigns to professional investigations, highlight just how deeply one animal can unite thousands. Mike the Tiger is not just a symbol of athletic pride; he is an emblem of resilience, identity, and belonging for generations of LSU students, alumni, and fans.
As the sun sets on another day without Mike in his enclosure, candles flicker outside the habitat, and notes of encouragement flutter in the warm summer breeze. Some simply say, “Come home, Mike.” Others echo a deeper sentiment—one of shared devotion to a tiger who has come to represent the soul of LSU.
